Committee Explores Wind Energy Issues

Synopsis: The Committee for the Environment has commenced a review into wind energy, with a focus on the environmental and planning aspects of wind energy development.

Session: 2013/2014

Date: 24 October 2013

Reference: ENV 02/13/14

The Committee for the Environment has commenced a review into wind energy, with a focus on the environmental and planning aspects of wind energy development.

The Committee will review evidence from a range of organisations and individuals, including wind energy companies, councils and those opposed to wind energy development. At the end of the review, the Committee will bring its report to the floor of the Assembly for approval.

Committee Chairperson Anna Lo said: "As a Committee, we are keenly aware of the need to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels to meet the European Union's 2020 renewable energy targets. As such, the Committee has had a long-standing interest in wind energy, and this review is an important opportunity to respond to the community concerns that have been expressed to us. We will consider planning policy with regard to wind turbines; the extent to which wind energy meets our renewable energy commitment; and levels of engagement with local communities.

Ms Lo concluded: "In our review, we will consider all the evidence we have collected from those with an interest in wind energy development in Northern Ireland, from energy companies to local communities, to ensure that we get a wider view of the issues at hand."